Main themes

Common themes highlight what submitters consider important in Newlands:

Generally people agree that increased housing choice and supply is necessary, and many consider Newlands suitable for medium-density housing. However, the impact on the local road network and public transport is a concern.

Where specified, the most accepted locations for medium-density housing are around the town centre and areas with good public transport connections.

Submitters were concerned that new housing could compromise Newlands’ family-home character.

Many submitters raised concerns about the impact of medium-density housing on the road network and public transport efficiency.

Design standards for medium-density housing are important – such as setbacks, heights, open space, access to sunlight, and noise controls.

Two storeys is generally the preferred height.

High-quality design and materials are necessary to ensure new housing fits the local context.

MDH developments should provide off-street car parking.

Design standards should be the same as, or no less stringent, than the existing standards.

Responses to the questions

Q. Where should medium-density housing development happen in your suburb?

The main reason for opposing MDH is existing peak-time traffic congestion and a perceived loss of the family focus in the suburb. Submitters generally support medium-density housing within 5-10 minutes of the Newlands shopping centre or public transport.

Supporters:

20% support medium-density housing within 5 minutes walk from the Newlands town centre.

20% support medium-density housing within 10 minutes walk from the town centre.

13% support medium-density housing near public transport.

4% believe medium-density housing should be beyond the town centre, in areas such as Woodridge and Paparangi.

Opposers:

43% do not support medium-density housing in Newlands because they are concerned about traffic congestion and public transport. Another concern was losing Newlands’ family character.

9% do not support medium-density housing generally or in Newlands, but didn’t give a reason why they don’t support it in Newlands, nor did they say where they don’t want it to go.

Q. What standards should we have to manage the design of medium-density housing?

Common themes

Two storeys is a generally-accepted building height.

Privacy, sunlight access and noise restrictions are important.

Setbacks, site coverage and insulation are necessary design standards.

Medium-density housing needs to be high-quality design and materials.

New housing should respect Newlands’ existing character and scale of established homes.